Thermographic testing uses infrared cameras to detect differences in surface temperatures that may indicate issues. It allows non-contact inspection of electrical equipment, buildings, industrial processes, and more. Key advantages are that it is non-destructive, fast, and can detect problems like loose connections, moisture ingress, insulation issues, and more from a distance. Operator experience is important to properly set up the infrared camera and interpret thermal images.

1. Thermographic Testing
Vibrotech
Reliability
Services
Limited

2. What is Thermography?
Infra Red Thermography is a technique for
producing a visible image of invisible (to our eyes)
infra red radiation emitted by objects due to their
thermal conditions

3. Thermography
Objectives of Test
• To detect hot or cold area’s
• To determine absolute temperature
• To view Thermal profiles
• To detect temperature loss

4. Thermography
Infra Red is part of the
Electromagnetic
Spectrum
• It travels in straight lines at
the speed of light
• The useful part is divided
between Short and Long
wavelengths
• Use of the correct
wavelength is essential

5. Test Equipment
• Hand held portable camera
• Battery Powered
• Operating at correct
wavelength
• Range…..-20°c to +1500°c
• Sensitivity…..0.1°c at 30°c
• Real time display
• Image Recording capability

6. Why Thermography?
• Non Contact
• Rapid Scanning
• Data can be recorded in differing formats
• Images produced are comprehensive &
reliable
• Is there a viable alternative?

7. Principles of Operation
• Object radiates infra red radiation
• Temperature difference
• Differences are detected and displayed visually
• Emissivity values must be observed

8. Advantages
• Non Contact
• Non Intrusive
• Can work at a distance
• Fast and Reliable
• Portable
• Convincing Results

9. Limitations
• Non Intrinsically safe
• There must be a temperature difference for
certain surveys
• Operator experience is essential
• Filters may be needed for certain
applications
• Sensitivity and Resolution reduce with
distance and angle of view

10. Electrical
• Switch Gear
• Fuse boxes
• Cable runs
• Electrical connectors
• Insulation
• Transformers

11. Junction Box
43.7°C
40
SP01
35
30
25
22.7°C

12. Fan
37.4°C
35
AR01
30
25
20
18.7°C

13. Fuse Box
38.1°C
35
LI01
30
25
23.3°C

14. Electrical Connections
Used for the detection of;
• Corroded connections
• Slack / loose connectors
• Connectors at too high an
operating temperature
• Hot spots

15. Transformers
• Electrical connections
• Insulators
• Thermal profile
• Operating
temperature
• Liquid Level

16. Refractory Linings
• Torpedo ladles
• Boilers
• Furnaces
• Exhausts
• Ducting
• Kilns

17. Rotary Kiln - Access Door
129.3°C
SP03
SP01
120
LI01 SP02
110
SP04
100
90
80
77.8°C

18. Kiln - Refractory Lining
48.7°C 58.5°C
SP04 LI01
SP01
SP03 45
50
40 SP02
SP01
35 40
SP02
30
30
25 SP03
22.5°C 22.6°C

19. Torpedo Ladle

20. Steel Carrying Ladle

21. Building Surveys
Used to detect,
• Lack of insulation
• Cold air infiltration
Draughts
• Moisture traps
• Hot / warm air escaping
• Structural Integrity
• Heating / Cooling

22. Building Surveys

23. Building Surveys
Moisture/Water Ingress
• Leaking Roof
• Bridged Cavity
• Leaking pipes

24. Refinery & Petro-Chem
• Vessel Surveys
• Blockages
• Defective lagging or
insulation
• Steam traps
• Erosion / Corrosion

25. Vessel Surveys

26. Flare Stacks

27. Process Plant
The above Thermograms show how
Thermography can be used as a very fast and
effective maintenance tool.
– The image on the right has a defective cylinder

28. Process Plant
Thermography may be
used for;
• Corrosion surveys
• Ensuring valve operation
• Leaks
• Blockages

29. Process Plant
• Hot spots
• Cold spots (Cryogenics)
• Damaged or missing
insulation
• Tank levels

30. Miscellaneous
• The detection of
process or
manufacturing faults
• Can be used as a
quality control tool